Israeli embassy staffers killed outside DC Jewish museum identified as couple set to be engaged

Elias Rodriguez is suspected of fatally shooting Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 2025. (Instagram/@shinewithIsrael)

Elias Rodriguez , the man accused of fatally shooting two Israeli Embassy employees outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, could face the death penalty if convicted, according to a newly unsealed FBI affidavit.

Rodriguez, 31, has been charged with the murder of foreign officials, a federal capital offense, along with multiple firearm-related counts and two counts of first-degree murder.

If convicted of either of the first two counts, he could face the death penalty. Under D.C. law, a conviction for first-degree murder carries a minimum sentence of 30 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life behind bars.

Rodriguez waived his right to a detention hearing and will be held without bond while he awaits trial. He was ordered back to court on June 18 for a preliminary hearing.

Read more about the allegations against Rodriguez.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Sarah Rumpf-Whitten.

Democratic lawmakers condemn murders of two Israeli embassy staffers, while speaking in front of the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Thursday.

Democratic lawmakers met in front of the Capital Jewish Museum on Thursday to condemn the murders of two Israeli Embassy workers who were shot on Thursday night by a man seen on camera shouting, “Free Palestine.”

The lawmakers included Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla.; Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill.; Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif.; Rep. Laura Friedman, D-Calif.;  Rep. Kim Schrier, D-Wash.; and  Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md.

“When leaving that event, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, a couple who were Israelis – Sarah was an American –  that worked for the Israeli embassy, were gunned down at point blank range in cold blood because they were Jewish, because they were associated with the Israeli embassy because they were targets of hate,” Shultz said. “The six of us wanted to come today to make sure that we could express our sorrow, our grief.”

Shultz also said she wanted to express zichronam livracha,  saying, “may the memories of Sarah and Yaron be a blessing.”

Schneider reflected on a time when he went to synagogue as a child, and on holidays, he would see extra security guards. Over the years, he noted, the guns the guards were carrying got longer and longer.

But in the last few years, he said, the guards not only appear on holidays, but every single day.

“In the 19 months since October 7, 2023, we have seen a rise of antisemitism that has been unprecedented in my lifetime,” Schneider said.

He said people of Jewish faith are told to not show their faith, whether it is wearing a baseball cap instead of a yarmulke, or tucking the Star of David into their shirts.

“We have grief. We have fear. But we're not surprised at what happened, and we are not going to back down,” Schneider said. “The resolve of all of us standing here, the resolve of every American Jew, the resolve of Jews around the world, is that we will hold onto who we are with pride and defiance.”

Jacobs echoed her colleagues, saying she is horrified by the murders.

“A shooting like this took lives from us. It's also meant to scare us. It's meant to take away the places where we should feel safe,” she said. “It's meant so that every Jewish parent like my brother and sister in law, who are dropping their babies off to a Jewish preschool this morning, take a little pause. It's meant so that every person who wears a yarmulke or a Jewish star like I often do wonders.

“They are trying to scare us, but we will not be scared away,” Jacobs continued. “And we're going to keep working to rid the world of anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred and racism and bigotry, so that Jewish people and all people can feel safe everywhere.”

Schrier said she was mourning and in sympathy with the families of the two victims.

“These experiences are meant to scare us, but they're also meant as a reminder that these last 50 years have been kind of a break from thousands of years of antisemitism – that it's not gone, that it's been reborn since October 7th of 2023, and that we're all worried,” she said. “We live in the United States of America. We have the ability to disagree, to disagree openly, to express thoughts, to protest peacefully and political violence and hate crimes are never, ever the answer. And that just adds to the grief that we're all feeling right now for your own and for Sarah and for their families.”

Schrier then turned to antisemitism on college campuses, taking a dig at the Trump administration.

“I want to be really clear that what is happening right now with using antisemitism as an excuse, specifically to crack down…on institutions of higher learning that is not acceptable to the vast majority of American Jews,” she said. “It is antithetical to our values. We understand that these institutions are the institutions that support liberal and democratic values, the values that allow Jewish people in this country to thrive and accomplish for the past 50 years. And I just want to condemn using us as an excuse to crack down on free speech and to crack down on students, and to deny funding for our universities that we all graduated from.”

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., said Thursday that it is increasing its presence at religious institutions across the city, after two Israeli embassy workers were killed in front of the Capital Jewish Museum the night before.

“MPD mourns the loss of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim and we send our condolences to their families and friends,” the department said in a statement posted to X. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Jewish community and everyone impacted by last night’s tragedy.

“We continue to work closely with our federal partners as this investigation continues and want to assure you that the safety and security of all residents and visitors remains our highest priority,” the statement continued.

“Out of abundance of caution, we are increasing our presence at religious institutions citywide,” the statement concluded.

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES - MAY 22: Officers set up a police cordon at the entrance of the building after Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents conduct a raid at the Chicago residence of Elias Rodriguez, the suspect in the fatal shooting of two Israeli Embassy staff members outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on May 22, 2025. The operation is part of an ongoing investigation into the incident. (Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Authorities raided the Chicago apartment of a 31-year-old left-wing activist accused of killing two Israeli embassy workers outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., Thursday, a day after the surprise attack, as the FBI looks to verify the authenticity of an apparent antisemitic "manifesto" circulating online.

Agents and officers in tactical gear, carrying rifles and at least one ballistic shield, were seen swarming the brick building around 9 a.m.

Elias Rodriguez is accused of lurking outside an event at the museum and then opening fire on two people as they were leaving.

Images from FOX 32 Chicago show investigators on scene for much of Thursday morning, coming and going from an apartment complex in the Albany Park neighborhood.

One of them also showed a sign hanging in a window reading, "Justice for Wadea."

Read more about the scene at Rodriguez’s Chicago apartment.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Michael Ruiz.

Interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, announced murder charges against 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez, who is accused of killing two Israeli embassy workers in cold blood on Wednesday night, in the name of a "free Palestine."

Rodriguez, a resident of Chicago, Illinois, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder for the murders of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim. Lischinsky, Pirro said, is a foreign official and official guest of the U.S. He was also in the U.S. on official business for Israel.

Rodriguez was also charged with felony firearms charges.

“Two families now are left to grieve for dreams that will never be realized, and as I speak right now, there is an individual who is being presented in court and charged with various crimes,” Pirro said. “What I want to be clear about today, since this is the first time you're hearing from me, is that this is a horrific crime and these crimes are not going to be tolerated by me and by this office.

“A young couple at the beginning of their life's journey about to be engaged in another country, had their bodies removed in the cold of the night, in a foreign city, in a body bag,” she added. “We are not going to tolerate that anymore.”

Pirro said Rodriguez’s case is the type that picks at old sores and old scars because it reminds people of what happened in the past.

The shooting, she said, happened at the Capital Jewish Museum, which was built around a brick building.

“That brick building was previously a synagogue called Adas Israel,” Pirro said. “It was one of Washington's first synagogues, a congregation that was created in 1869, and Ulysses S Grant, our president, actually attended the dedication of that synagogue. And so, to this day, that synagogue in that area remains a cornerstone of the Jewish community in DC.”

While events like this pick at old scars, Pirro also wanted to be clear that violence against anyone based on their religion is “an act of cowardice.”

“It is not an act of a hero,” she said. “It is the kind of case that we will vigorously pursue. Antisemitism will not be tolerated, especially in the nation’s capital.”

Although charges were announced less than 24 hours after the crime occurred, the crime will be investigated as a hate crime and act of terrorism. Pirro noted that additional charges may come as the evidence warrants.

Rodriguez appeared in court on Thursday afternoon, where he had an attorney appointed.

The judge advised him that he could be punished by life or death.

Pirro said Rodriguez waived his right to a detention hearing and conceded to detention. A preliminary hearing is set for 1 p.m. on June 18.

Left: Suspect Elias Rodriguez (INSTAGRAM/@shinewithisrael); Right: Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim (Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Elias Rodriguez, the suspect who allegedly murdered two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington D.C. on Wednesday night has been charged with two counts of murder.

According to the affidavit, Rodriguez has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, murder of foreign officials, causing the death of a person through the use of a firearm, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

The two victims killed in the attack have been identified by Israel as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim.

“During an interview with MPD detectives, after having been advised of his Miranda rights and after waiving them, RODRIGUEZ expressed admiration for the actions of an individual who self-immolated in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., on February 25, 2024, as a form of protest intended to draw attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” the affidavit alleged. “RODRIGUEZ described this person’s actions as courageous and labeled him a ‘martyr.’ Rodriguez also stated that he had purchased a ticket to the event at the Museum approximately three hours prior to its commencement.”

Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter described the pair as a "young couple about to be engaged," and noted that, "The young man purchased a ring this week," planning to propose "to his girlfriend next week in Jerusalem."

A post on the official X account of the embassy of Israel to the United States stated that "a terrorist shot and killed them as they exited an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in DC."

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin posted to X May 22, 2025, that he had met Sarah Lynn Milgrim, an American employee of the embassy, two weeks ago in his office. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin had just met with one of the slain Israeli Embassy staffers earlier in May, posting to social media Thursday he was "heartbroken" over her shooting by a "Jew-hating radical."

Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, two staffers of the Embassy of Israel to the United States who were engaged to be married, were shot and killed as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., Wednesday night.

Zeldin posted to X Thursday afternoon that he had met Milgrim, who was an American employee of the embassy, two weeks ago in his office.

"I just met Sarah two weeks ago in my office at EPA HQ," Zeldin posted. "She struck me as a young woman filled with life and positivity.

"Heartbroken to learn she was one of two tragically murdered last night by a Jew-hating radical screaming ‘Free Palestine,’" he continued. "May Sarah and Yaron rest in peace."

Read more about what Zeldin said of the young couple.

This is an excerpt from a post by Fox News Digital’s Brooke Singman.

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., one of the first two Muslim women in Congress, has been a vocal advocate for the Palestinian cause. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn. , avoided answering questions from reporters regarding the shooting in Washington, D.C., that killed two Israeli embassy staffers departing the Capital Jewish Museum Wednesday evening.

"I’m going to go for now," Omar, the first Somali American elected to Congress, told reporters Thursday when asked if she would react to the shooting.

A spokesperson for Omar did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.

Later, Omar said she was "appalled" by the shooting and said that violence is not welcome in the U.S.

"I am appalled by the deadly shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum last night," Omar said in a post on X on Thursday. "Holding the victims, their families, and loved ones in my thoughts and prayers.  Violence should have no place in our country."

Find out more about what Omar had to say.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Diana Stancy.

The U.S. State Department condemned the murder of two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night, stressing that the U.S. stands in solidarity with Israel.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce issued the statement during a press briefing on Thursday.

“We condemn the heinous murder of two staff members from the Israeli embassy in Washington, DC last night,” Bruce said. “Every day we talk about in this room the aftermath of one of the most obscene attacks on Jews in history. The October 7th massacre was a reminder to the world that Jew hatred and murder is the hallmark of terrorists and monsters around the world.

“The envy feeding this hate is thousands of years old. It is now the 21st century, and it is time for the barbarity to end,” she continued. “While this obscenity happened in Washington, DC, we have a president and a Secretary of State that recognize the importance of saying ‘enough is enough,’ and genuinely, ‘never again.’

“There is a reason why we stand in solidarity with Israel. There is a reason why we stand with our partners at the Israeli embassy, and there is a reason why we stand with the Jewish people here in the United States and around the world, because America has a history of not allowing the monsters among us to destroy life, the future, and everything that matters,” Bruce said. “The Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service is providing ongoing support to the DC Metropolitan Police Department, and their investigation of this incident, and coordinating with other federal and local law enforcement partners. As Secretary Marco Rubio has said, ‘make no mistake, we will track down those responsible and bring them to justice.’

“Our prayers go out to their loved ones. Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky: may their memory be a blessing,” Bruce concluded.

FBI agents cordon off the scene outside the Capital Jewish Museum following a shooting that left two people dead, in Washington, DC, in the early hours of May 22, 2025. Two Israeli embassy staff members were killed near a Jewish museum in Washington late Wednesday May 21, US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem said. "Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share," she posted on X. (Photo by ALEX WROBLEWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Wednesday's attack that killed two employees of the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. is part of a long history of assaults against Israeli targets around the world.

The victims, who were a soon-to-be-engaged couple, were identified as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim. Their murders happened outside the Capital Jewish Museum, after which the suspected shooter yelled, "Free, free Palestine!" and security officers apprehended him.

The shooting comes as tensions over Israel’s operations in the Gaza Strip have drastically escalated this week amid growing humanitarian concerns, though it is not the first time since the war broke out following the deadly Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel that its D.C. embassy has been a target.

Since 1969, there have been at least 31 terror attacks targeting Israeli embassies and diplomatic staff across the globe.

Find out more about embassy-targeted attacks.

This is an excerpt of a story from Caitlin McFall.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken to President Donald Trump in the wake of the shooting that killed two Israeli embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., late Wednesday.“

President Trump expressed deep sorrow over the horrific murder in Washington of two Israeli embassy staff members, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, of blessed memory,” the prime minister’s office said in a statement on Thursday.

Netanyahu thanked Trump for his administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism in the United States, according to the statement.

Trump also spoke to Netanyahu about the war in Gaza, expressing support for the prime minister’s goals to “secure the release of all hostages, to eliminate Hamas, and to advance the Trump Plan,” the prime minister’s office said.

The two leaders also agreed to ensure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons.

President Donald Trump is “saddened and outraged” over the “brutal murder” of two Israeli embassy staff members who were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, the White House said Thursday. 

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt remembered the victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, a couple who were set to be engaged during a press briefing. 

“The evil of anti-Semitism must be eradicated from our society,” Leavitt said, adding that the Department of Justice will prosecute the perpetrator “to the fullest extent of the law.” 

The suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez, of Chicago, authorities have said. He has been taken into custody. 

Leavitt continued: “Hatred has no place in the United States of America under President Donald Trump. Everyone here at the white House is praying for the victims, friends and families during this unimaginable time.”

John Wayne Fry, who says he is the neighbor of Elias Rodriguez in Chicago, spoke with reporters on Thursday.

A neighbor of Elias Rodriguez told reporters outside their apartment complex in Chicago, that the shooting suspect appeared to be a “friendly guy,” though appeared “sensitive” about the Palestinian situation in Gaza. 

John Wayne Fry told reporters that Rodriguez lived in an apartment near his for a couple of years, calling him a “normal, friendly guy” who had a “Hello Kitty” sign on his door. 

Fry said that Rodriguez had a picture in his window of a Palestinian child who was stabbed to death. 

“That gave me the impression that they were very, very sensitive people, especially about the issue of Palestine,” he said.  

Fry said that he was “disappointed” by the shooting that Rodriguez allegedly carried out in Washington, D.C. 

“I wish that I had an opportunity to talk with him because if I had I would have talked him out of it,” Fry said, adding that wars are stopped with votes, not bullets or bombs. 

Fry also said a woman lived with Rodriguez in the apartment, though added that he was uncertain of their relationship.

The FBI confirmed on Thursday afternoon that agents were conducting a search in Chicago in connection to the deadly shooting in Washington, D.C. 

The FBI Washington Field office said FBI Chicago was “conducting court-authorized law enforcement activity” in the Chicago area related to the shooting. 

Elias Rodriguez, the 31-year-old suspect who was earlier taken into custody, is from Chicago, authorities have said.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino earlier said that Rodriguez had been interviewed around 1 a.m. after being taken into custody. Bongino also said that investigators were working to authenticate “certain writings” that Rodriguez allegedly authored. 

No further details about the investigation or ongoing search in Chicago were immediately provided, though Bongino said authorities would share more information when they are able.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino on Thursday afternoon said authorities were investigating “certain writings” allegedly written by the suspect in the deadly shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., that unfolded late Wednesday.

Bongino wrote on X that he wanted to share some updates “in the interest of transparency,” though said authorities were limited in what can be said at this time as they “aggressively” pursue charges against the suspect, who was in custody and earlier identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago.

“The FBI is aware of certain writings allegedly authored by the suspect, and we hope to have updates as to the authenticity very soon,” Bongino wrote in a post on X.

Bongino also confirmed that the suspect was interviewed at around 1 a.m. after being taken into custody, though he added that more details could not immediately be shared.

He also said that, as authorities previously stated, the FBI believes there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time.

“Above all, please pray for the families of the victims,” Bongino wrote. “This is something no parent, family member, or friend should have to go through. The FBI sends our condolences and will offer our full support as the investigation continues.”

The Embassy of Israel to the U.S. identified the victims as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who were set to be engaged.

A man draped in the Israeli flag, bearing a cross and the name "Jesus" at its center, gestures as Metropolitan Police officers secure the area outside the Capital Jewish Museum following a shooting that left two people dead in Washington, DC, in the early hours of May 22, 2025 (ALEX WROBLEWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum executive director Dr. Beatrice Gurwitz issued a statement on Thursday that expresses heartbreak over the death of the two Israeli embassy staffers killed in Washington D.C. on Wednesday night, and indicates that the museum is working to open again in the coming days.

"We are heartbroken by the murders of Yaron Lishinsky and Sarah Milgrim, and send our sincere condolences to their families and friends. May they, and all who grieve this devastating loss, be comforted by their communities," the statement reads.

"In an act of horrific antisemitic violence , a gunman attacked our beloved community. This tragedy is devastating. Such acts of terror attempt to instill fear, silence voices, and erase history—but we refuse to let them succeed," the statement notes. "We are working to re-open the museum in the coming days, with all necessary security in place, so we can return to telling the story of Jewish Washington for thousands of visitors from around the world.”

The official X account for Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Israeli flags at the ministry and missions around the globe have been lowered to half-staff to mourn the two Israeli embassy staffers killed Wednesday in Washington D.C.

"Following the horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C., in which our colleagues Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim were murdered, Israeli flags at the Foreign Ministry and at missions around the world have been lowered to half-mast in mourning,' the tweet noted.

"We are heartbroken,' the post added, including the broken hear emoji. "May Yaron and Sarah’s memory be a blessing," the ministry concluded, adding the candle emoji.

Dan Bongino, a conservative commentator, is photographed in Stuart, Fla. on Thursday, March 18, 2021. (Calla Kessler for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino referred to the attack as an "act of terror" in a Thursday morning post on X.

"Last night’s act of terror has the full attention of your FBI. Targeted acts of anti-Semitic violence are typically carried out by spineless, gutless cowards. And the penalties will be harsh as we tighten up this investigation and run down any additional leads. I should have additional updates for you shortly as I head back to FBI HQ," Bongino noted in the tweet.

Jojo Kilan said that she "looked the killer in the eyes" and asked if she could get him water, not knowing at the time who he was.

"He said, 'Yes, that would be great,'" Kilan, who indicated during an appearance on "America's Newsoom" that she organized the event, recalled.

"Unbeknownst to me, moments ago this man had execution style killed two people," she said.

"I looked evil right in the eye and there he was. And seconds after I handed him the water, he brandishes the keffiyeh, yells 'free Palestine,' and then he's apprehended."

She said the man should have not have been allowed to "enter the building," noting, "Thank God he didn't shoot more people."

Vice President JD Vance listens during 44th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service at the U.S. Capitol on May 15, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Vice President JD Vance said that his "heart breaks" for the couple slain in the attack.

"My heart breaks for Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, who were murdered last night at the Capital Jewish Museum. Antisemitic violence has no place in the United States," Vance declared in a post on X. "We're praying for their families and all of our friends at the Israeli Embassy, where the two victims worked."

Yoni Kalin, who was at the museum on Wednesday night, said during an interview on “FOX & Friends” that people could tell that “perpetrator” was “in shock” and “were bringing him water, checking in on him, showing value. And we didn't know that he was a killer at this time,” he explained.

When authorities arrived the man "turned himself in," Kalin said.

Kalin noted that individual said, “I did this for Palestine. I did this for Gaza,” and engaged in "free Palestine" chants.

Katie Kalisher, who also spoke to "FOX & Friends" on Thursday morning, noted that one of her friends had asked the man if he was OK and asked about getting him some water. Kalisher said that the man said that would "be great."

Close up of the FBI logo on a black cap (Roberto Machado Noa/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Steve Jensen, assistant director in charge of the FBI Washington field office, said during a press conference that the FBI is standing alongside the Metropolitan Police Department to assist in investigating the killings and "look into ties to potential terrorism or motivation based on a bias-base crime or a hate crime."

A senior law enforcement source this morning tells FOX News they feel confident the suspect perpetrated the attack. The FBI and local DC police are working together not only to pump him for information and provide to the public in charging documents — BUT also working to preserve any leads. If they give too much information to the public about this case — they could scare others away---that may have been aware of his plans.

Fox News Digital's Alex Nitzberg contributed to this report

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin attends the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway on March 30, 2025 in Martinsville, Va. (Logan Riely/Getty Images)

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, expressed support for Israel in a Thursday morning post on X.

"My heart breaks for the victims of the atrocious act and their families. Make no mistake—this act of violence was an act of terror, targeted against the Jewish people. We stand alongside our friends from Israel in their grief and purpose and must have zero tolerance for antisemitism. I urge Virginians and Americans to stand against hate," Youngkin noted.

Rep. Elise Stefanik at the annual CPAC DC conference at the Gaylord National Resort in Oxon Hill, MD on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. (DOMINIC GWINN/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., called the attack "Horrific," referring to it as "a heinous act of antisemitic murder and terrorism" in a Thursday morning post on X.

The congresswoman called for the U.S. to continue standing with Israel.

"U.S. law enforcement must use every tool at its disposal to investigate and prosecute these evil criminals. The U.S. must continue to stand with our most precious ally Israel and work to eradicate this vile antisemitism raging in our streets and around the world," she declared in the tweet.

During an appearance on "Fox & Friends," Katie Kalisher, who said she was at the museum when the shooting occurred, recounted speaking to the suspect.

She said that she was at the museum when gunshots could be heard "coming from outside the building, maybe 10, 15 gunshots."

She recounted speaking to a man who came in, looking distressed, noting that when she asked him if he liked the museum, he asked her what kind of museum it was.

She said that after she told him it is a Jewish museum, he asked, "Do you think that's why they did it?"

Kalisher said that she answered him, saying she hoped not.

Then the man pulled a keffiyeh from his bag, "and says to me, 'I did it, I did this for Gaza,'" Kalisher recounted, adding, "and then he starts shouting, 'Free, free Palestine.'"

She said that man was arrested by authorities.

U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., speaks to reporters following the weekly Senate luncheon at the U.S. Capitol on May 13, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called it a "sickening shooting" on Wednesday night in a post on X.

"I’m closely monitoring the shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum tonight in DC. This sickening shooting seems to be another horrific instance of antisemitism which as we know is all too rampant in our society. I’m praying for those who were killed, all those affected, and their families," the senator noted in the tweet.

Israeli diplomat Tal Naim, spokesperson of the Israeli embassy in D.C., lamented the loss of the two Israeli embassy staffers who were slain in America's capital city.

"Yaron and Sarah, Words cannot begin to describe the heartbreak and sorrow. Just this morning, we were still laughing together by the coffee corner — and now, all that remains is a picture. Instead of walking you down the aisle, we are walking with you to your graves. What an unbearable loss," the tweet reads.

Following the murder of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington D.C., the Jewish State indicated that it will not shrink in the face of terrorism.

"We are shocked and horrified this morning by the news of the brutal terrorist attack that claimed the lives of two of our Embassy staff members in Washington — Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim," a post on Israel's official X account declared.

"May their memory be a blessing. We embrace the grieving families during this painful time and will continue to support them always. Israeli diplomats and representatives around the world stand on the frontlines of Israel’s diplomatic efforts — defending the country with their very lives. We will not be deterred by terror. We will continue our mission across the globe, with unwavering commitment to represent Israel with pride," the tweet reads.

The message was also shared on social media by Israel's Foreign Ministry.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., listens during a mark up meeting with the House Committee on Energy and Commerce committee on Capitol Hill on May 13, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., said in a post on X that she is "devastated" by the killings.

She also spoke out against antisemitism.

"Absolutely nothing justifies the murder of innocents. I am devastated by the killing of two people outside an @AJCGlobal event here in Washington. Our prayers are with the victims, families, and loved ones of all impacted," the congresswoman noted in the tweet.

"As we await more details, we must be clear that hatred has no home here. Antisemitism is a threat to all we hold dear as a society. It must be confronted and rooted out everywhere," she added.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., walks to the Senate chamber at the U.S. Capitol on April 23, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., a staunch and outspoken supporter of Israel, said his 'heart goes out' to the families of the attack victims.

"Unbelievable and appears to be a targeted, antisemitic attack. My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of those who died or were injured in this senseless violence," the senator noted in a tweet late Wednesday night.

President Donald Trump arrives for a House Republican meeting at the U.S. Capitol on May 20, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

In the wake of the murder of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington D.C., U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on social media, noting that "Radicalism" does not have a place in America.

"These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!" he declared in a Truth Social post shortly after midnight.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio testifies before a House Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs hearing on the budget for the Department of State, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 2025. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images))

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has strongly condemned the killing of two employees of the Israeli embassy in D.C., declaring that justice will be served.

"We condemn in the strongest possible terms the murder of two staff members from the Embassy of Israel in Washington, DC. Our prayers are with their loved ones," Rubio said in a post on X.

"This was a brazen act of cowardly, antisemitic violence. Make no mistake: we will track down those responsible and bring them to justice."

The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 25, 2024. (Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, where two Israeli embassy staffers were killed while leaving an event on Wednesday, was set to receive money from the Washington, D.C., government for safety and security.

The city announced on May 15 that 11 nonprofits would be receiving some of the $500,000 from the Safe and Secure DC grant, which aims to enhance "the physical security and safety of organizations" located in DC.

The Capital Jewish Museum was one of the organizations named. Of the 11 organizations, seven of them are related to Judaism or Israel.

The goal of the grant is also to prioritize "preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations that have heightened safety concerns," the city said during the announcement.

“Mayor Bowser frequently reminds us that enhancing public safety is a partnership between government and community. We are pleased to extend our collaborative efforts through the Safe and Secure DC Grant,” said Deputy Mayor Lindsey Appiah. “We are committed to helping nonprofit organizations that serve our communities by equipping them with funding to invest in equipment, personnel, and training, strengthening their ability to protect staff and the residents and visitors they serve.”

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin early Thursday joined the chorus of world leaders condemning the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers outside a cultural event Washington, D.C.

“I strongly condemn the horrific gun attack that killed two Israeli embassy staff in Washington DC last night,” Martin wrote in a post on X. “My deepest sympathies go to the family and friends of the couple, and the Israeli people.”

He said there can be “absolutely no place for violence or hate.”

Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, Danny Danon speaks during a UN Security Council meeting

Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations says the fatal shooting of two embassy staffers outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. was a depraved act and his country will continue to act to protect it’s citizens.

“The fatal shooting that took place outside the event that took place at the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. is a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism. Harming the Jewish community is crossing a red line,” said Danny Danon.

“ We are confident that the US authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act. Israel will continue to act resolutely to protect its citizens and representatives – everywhere in the world,” he continued.

The ambassador believes that world leaders are in dire need to do more to stop these hate crimes.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said early Thursday morning that the suspect linked to the fatal shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., is currently being interviewed by DC Metro Police and the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Forces.

“The shooting happened a short distance from our Washington Field Office. Our FBI police officer, assigned to the external post on the WFO property, immediately responded and rendered aid after the attack,” Bongino said. “Early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence. Our FBI team is fully engaged and we will get you answers as soon as we can, without compromising additional leads.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is also at the scene reviewing evidence to determine what additional actions need to be taken, Bongino said.

The CEO of the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles said the deadly shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday must be "recognized for what it is: a depraved act of antisemitic terrorism."

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Jim Berk said the shooting "was not a random act of violence," but a "targeted assault on Israeli diplomats and the Jewish community in the very heart of the nation's capital."

The victims, identified as a young couple on the verge of engagement, were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when they were allegedly shot and killed by Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old man who yelled "Free, free Palestine!" after he was detained.

"This horrific act is the result of months of silence, excuse-making, and moral cowardice in the face of escalating antisemitism. When Israel is demonized as evil, when Jews are targeted under the guise of 'anti-Zionism,' it emboldens hate and incites violence. Jew-hatred is not a political position," Berk said.

"Let us be clear: this is the outcome when antisemitic hate is normalized on our campuses, in our streets, and online. When leaders fail to call it what it is, hate festers, metastasizes, and erupts in bloodshed," he continued. "This can no longer be tolerated, and our political and religious leaders, as well as each and every one of us, must lead by example and condemn this act without qualification. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families, to the Israeli diplomatic community, and to the Jewish community of Washington, D.C."

According to its website, the Simon Wiesenthal Center is "a global Jewish human rights activist organization that confronts antisemitism, hate, defends the safety of Israel and Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations through its advocacy and education programs, investigations, research, reporting, media, films, and museum."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his “heart aches” after two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C. were shot and killed by a gunman outside a cultural event late Wednesday.

"My heart aches for the families of the beloved young man and young woman, whose lives were abruptly cut short by a despicable antisemitic murderer,” Netanyahu wrote in a post on X early Thursday. “I have instructed to strengthen security arrangements at Israel's missions worldwide and the protection of the state's representatives."

The prime minister's office said he had spoken with Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Yehiel Leiter, as well as U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Bondi said the United States will "ensure the murderer is brought to justice," according to the prime minister's office.

“We are witnessing the terrible cost of antisemitism and the rampant incitement against the State of Israel. The blood libels against Israel are paid for in blood, and we must fight them relentlessly," Netanyahu said.

Two Israeli Embassy staff members were shot and killed during an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. (REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst)

A pro-Palestinian man is in custody after allegedly killing two Israeli embassy staff members who were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, authorities confirmed.

Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith said during a news conference that officers responded to multiple calls of a shooting near the museum at around 9:08 p.m. on Wednesday. 

When authorities arrived at the scene, a man and a woman were found unconscious and not breathing. Despite life-saving efforts from first responders, Smith said both were pronounced dead.

A 31-year-old man identified as Elias Rodriguez, of Chicago, is believed to have committed the act alone and is in custody, Smith said, adding that his gun was also recovered.

Click here to read the full story from Fox News Digital's Elizabeth Pritchett.